Health Office
The Health Office at Paris Elementary School is staffed during school with a nurse (R.N.) and health secretary. The nurse has other elementary schools to cover, therefore is not on site all the time. The nurses at Paris Elementary are Dede McAllister, R.N. , Vickey VanLoan, R.N. and Wendy Bernier is the health secretary. The health secretary is available for first aid and medication administration. She is also the key person who maintains health screening information and health records for our students at Paris Elementary, as well as several other elementary schools in the District. Questions related to your child's health may be directed to the Health Office at 743-7802, ext. 305 or 306.
2009-2010 News from Paris Elementary Nursing Staff:
Seasonal Influenza Permission Form
Letter from Dr. Eastman on Flu
"What You Need To Know" Vaccine on Mist / Shot
Letter from School Nurse on H1N1 - 11/13/09 sent home
The school nurse provides first aid for injuries and illness. She works in coordination with students, physicians, parents and teachers to decrease the impact of a student's chronic or acute illnesses on their education experience. Information, assessment, referral and support are offered for a wide variety of health issues.
The SAD#17 school nurses conduct several state recommended screenings throughout the school year. School screenings are not a substitute for complete professional examinations. The tests may reveal that the child has a condition that may require further evaluation by a specialist. School tests are not intended to diagnose the nature of the defects.
Vision
We do vision screening in grades K, 1, 3, 5. If your child "fails" the school screening it is recommended that they see an eye doctor. If you do not have health insurance, please contact your school nurse for information on programs to assist your with getting the follow-up that your child needs.
Hearing
Hearing is done in grades 1, 3, 5. If your child does not hear at the designated frequencies in either ear, they are considered to "fail" the screening. It is then recommended to have a follow up by their doctor.
BMI (Body Mass Index)
As a part of the state recommended health screening, school nurses check the height and weight of students in K, 1, 3, 5. The American Academy of Pediatrics, a group of doctors who care for children, suggests that families should:
- Offer healthy snacks, like fruits, vegetables, and other foods low in sugar and salt.
- Drink few sodas and drink more water, low-fat milk, or low-calorie drinks.
- Limit television, video games, and computer time to no more than 2 hours a day.
- Take family walks, bicyle, run, or exercise with your family.
Healthy habits start early. Please be aware that diet, physical activity, and other health habits will affect your child's health and life.
Tooth Fairies, INC.
Preventive Dental Care
A registered dental hygienist is available during regular school hours to provide dental cleanings, fluoride, sealants and oral hygiene instruction. This service is offered to students who have difficulty accessing these services. MaineCare is accepted and payment plans are available.
Spinal Screening (Scoliosis)
This is done in grades 6 for girls. The school spinal screening was developed to provide a process for the early identification of abnormal spine curves. We alert parent to potential spine problems that could affect the physical development of the child.


